When longtime Hosparus Health patient Samuel Canary needed help relocating, his care team didn’t hesitate to lend a hand. On August 8, 2025, volunteers joined Social Worker Cori Petty, Chaplain Kyle Kirchhoff, and Community Outreach Manager Kenya Whitfield to pack and move Mr. Canary’s belongings from his apartment.
As they sorted through his things, Mr. Canary shared stories from his life — his high school diploma, photos of his late father, and the letter that once called him to serve in the Vietnam War.
“It was such a special day. You could see how proud he was of his life and how grateful he was for the support,” said Kenya Whitfield, Community Outreach Manager. “We weren’t just helping him move; we were helping him carry those memories into a new chapter.”
Social Worker Cori Petty recalled that anytime someone asked Mr. Canary what mattered most, he always said, “Hosparus.” “When I told him we were making a plan to get his things, he smiled and said, ‘Wow, you all are really great.’ Seeing his face light up when we brought him clothes, favorite snacks, and personal mementos is something I’ll never forget,” she said.
She added, “It was one of the most meaningful days in my ten years with Hosparus. So many people showed up — both in person and behind the scenes — to make it happen. Hosparus is known for comfort care near the end of life, but we also do so much more before that point. Sam is a perfect example.”
Chaplain Kyle Kirchhoff said he was struck by the broader ripple effect of the day. “The impact Hosparus makes extends beyond our patients to the community,” he said. “Our volunteers didn’t hesitate to step in, donate items to local organizations, and help make the most out of a challenging situation. Seeing how those efforts gave meaning and hope to others was touching for me.”
Before leaving his apartment, Mr. Canary asked that some of his belongings be donated to local nonprofits, honoring his wish to help others in need.
When Kenya asked how he was feeling about the transition, Mr. Canary smiled and said, “I am blessed with my two favorite new family members,” pointing to Kyle and Cori.
This moment reflects how Hosparus Health’s team goes beyond medical care to provide comfort, dignity, and human connection for those they serve.
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